Author: Sam Buisman

Dane County's new daily COVID-19 cases have dropped by over 50% roughly a month after its emergency mask order went into effect. 

Public Health Madison and Dane County confirmed that as of today, the county's average number of new COVID-19 cases per day is 47 cases. This constitutes less than half of the 97 cases per day average recorded on July 13, the day Dane County's indoor mask-wearing order went into effect.

In a Facebook post, Public Health Madison and Dane County applauded and empathized with residents for their willingness to mask up.

“We know this hasn't been easy on anyone, but we're seeing real progress,” read the post. “Thank you for wearing a mask, avoiding gathering, and following public health recommendations!” 

Dane County officials issued their masking order last month as the county was confirming nearly 500 new COVID-19 cases per week. Shortly thereafter, Governor Tony Evers followed suit, issuing a similar order requiring indoor mask-wearing statewide. 

While information on COVID-19 is rapidly evolving, researchers believe that masks are one of the most efficient ways to prevent the spread of the deadly virus. One study published in the Journal of Medical Virology concluded that even homemade cloth masks can block over 95% of airborne COVID-19 particulates. 

According to Public Health Madison and Dane County, there have been 4,953 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Dane County and 39 resulting deaths.